LOGAN SQUARE & AVONDALE

Logan Square, a sprawling residential enclave on the Northwest Side, emerged in the noughties as the epicentre of Chicago’s food scene, which has since expanded into neighbouring Avondale. The major streets are lined not just with restaurants, bars and cafes, but urban farms, breweries and coffee roasters — plus a weekly farmers’ market between June and October.

Begin with a very early lunch at Honey Butter Fried Chicken, an Avondale favourite that’s open from 11am (closed Mondays) and celebrated not just for its eponymous signature dish, but also its mac and cheese. If that doesn’t appeal, try Tribecca’s Sandwich

Shop, a newcomer offering deliciously overstuffed Midwestern sandwiches such as the ‘horseshoe’, an open-faced burger covered in fries and cheese sauce. For a sweet finish, try one of the doughnuts in inventive flavours such as chocolate and French fries.

Hire a kayak from Wateriders Chicago and spend a few hours paddling along the Chicago River, a journey through parks and woodlands that will make you forget you’re in the middle of a big city. Afterwards, explore Logan Square, with its gorgeous, 19th-century homes, or the shopping strip of Milwaukee Avenue — including Bric-a-brac Records & Collectibles, a trove of 80s memorabilia, and Adornment + Theory, a jewellery shop that stocks pieces created by women and people of colour.

Stop for a drink, perhaps, at Quality Time, a casual neighbourhood bar that serves excellent cocktails along with handmade tamales. Then, for dinner, pay a visit to Mi Tocaya Antojería, where chef Diana Dávila puts her own stamp on traditional Mexican dishes, including duck carnitas, enchiladas and an exceptional steak burrito. Alternatively, check out Lula Café,a welcoming spot serving a creative farm-totable menu.

End the day by picking up an ice cream pop at Pretty Cool Ice Cream on your way to knock over a few pins at Fireside Bowl, or to settle in on a stool at Rosa’s Lounge to listen to some Chicago blues.

GETTING THERE

American Airlines, British Airways and United fly nonstop from Heathrow to Chicago.

WHERE TO STAY

Chicago Athletic Association hotel offers doubles from $215 (£186). chicagoathletic hotel.com

HOW TO DO IT

British Airways Holidays offers five-nights’ room-only at the Millennium Knickerbocker from £720 per person in March 2023, including flights. ba.com/ holidays

MORE INFO

choosechicago.com